Ivermectin: Uses, How It Works, Medicines
Ivermectin is a prescription antiparasitic medicine used to treat certain worm infections, such as strongyloidiasis, an intestinal threadworm, and onchocerciasis (river blindness). It belongs to the anthelmintics. It is often given as a single dose on an empty stomach. Products made for animals are not safe for people.
Also known as: Ivermectin tablet, Ivermectin 12 mg, Stromectol, Ivecop
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How does Ivermectin work?
Ivermectin attaches to channels in the nerve and muscle cells of the worm and keeps them open. The worm is paralysed, cannot feed or move, and is cleared from the body.
How to take Ivermectin
Follow the label or your doctor's advice. Ivermectin is usually taken as a single dose with water on an empty stomach, and some infections need repeat doses. Your doctor decides the dose.
Side effects of Ivermectin
Most people take ivermectin without serious problems. Some side effects are common and mild, but a few need medical help.
Uncommon or mild
- Dizziness, weakness or loss of appetite
- Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or diarrhoea
- With river blindness: swelling, joint pain, fever or fast heartbeat
Rare but serious: get medical help
- Blistering or peeling skin, rash or hives. Get medical help immediately
- Confusion, sleepiness or loss of consciousness
- Seizures, blurred vision or trouble walking
Who should be careful
Some people need to check with a doctor before taking ivermectin, or need extra care while taking it.
When the label says not to use it
- Allergy to ivermectin or any ingredient of the tablet
- Products made for animals
- Allergy to ivermectin
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: safety is not established
- Weakened immune system
- Time in West or Central Africa (loiasis): a serious reaction can occur
- Never use products made for animals
Medicines and things that interact with Ivermectin
Ivermectin may interact with other medicines. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about everything you take.
- Other prescription, over-the-counter and herbal products: tell your doctor
- The US CDC lists azithromycin, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and cetirizine as considerations
If someone takes too much
Extra doses can cause seizures, vomiting and dizziness. If someone has taken much more than prescribed, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.
Regulatory status in India
Approved for sale in India as a prescription medicine. Single-ingredient ivermectin is not on the CDSCO list of medicines banned under section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Check the schedule printed on the pack.
Type of medicine
Ivermectin belongs to this type of medicine.
Medicines that contain Ivermectin
These medicines sold in India contain Ivermectin. They are listed A to Z, not ranked.
- Ivecop 12 · 12 mg tablet
What is Ivermectin used for?
Medicines that contain Ivermectin are used for these conditions.
Other medicines of the same type
These active ingredients are of the same type as Ivermectin.
Common questions
What is ivermectin used for?
Ivermectin is a prescription medicine used on a doctor's advice to treat certain worm infections, such as strongyloidiasis and onchocerciasis (river blindness).
Is animal ivermectin safe for people?
No. Products made for animals are tested only for particular animal species and can seriously harm people. Use only ivermectin a doctor has prescribed and that comes from a legitimate pharmacy.
Can ivermectin be taken in pregnancy?
Safety in pregnancy has not been established. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, may be pregnant, planning a baby or breastfeeding so they can weigh the benefits and risks.
Sources
- Ivermectin. MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Clinical care of scabies. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US)
- Soil-transmitted helminth infections. World Health Organization
- ATC/DDD Index: P02CF01. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- List of drugs prohibited for manufacture and sale through gazette notifications under section 26A of the Drugs & Cosmetics Act 1940. Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO)